Implementing the 4C/ID Model for Parametric Design in Architectural Education
Abstract
Parametric design (PD) education requires an algorithms-based logic that imposes considerably high cognitive load. The aim of this study, therefore, is to explore and determine the efficiency of the four-component instructional design model (4C/ID). The 4C/ID has a focus on authentic, whole-task learning, which was tested on a group of 14 senior architecture students on a 15-week undergraduate course on PD within mixed-design research. There were pre- and post-assessments of computational thinking (CT), CT self-efficacy (CTSE), and design thinking (DT), along with analyses of final projects and qualitative feedback. The quantitative data showed that there were significant gains for algorithmic thinking and problem-solving skills after taking the course. There were significant gains for CTSE factors such as abstraction and reasoning. On correlation analysis, there was a strong relationship between course performance and these technical skills, although there were no significant correlations with DT scores, which were found not to have changed much. This implies that though the 4C/ID model facilitated the transition of students from passive understanding to confident performance of procedures, achieving competencies in higher order design skills took longer. Qualitative feedback confirmed the effectiveness of the 4C/ID model but also highlighted two issues: visual complexity in the interface and data complexity, which could hinder students who are not sufficiently prepared. Therefore, effective PD education needs careful task design and support for logical reasoning to balance technical requirements with creative objectives.
Keywords
- Parametric Design Education
- 4C/ID Model
- Computational Thinking
- Algorithmic Reasoning
- Instructional Design
Ethical Statement
References
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Details
Primary Language
English
Subjects
Information Technologies in Architecture and Design, Architecture (Other)
Journal Section
Research Article
Authors
Hasan Tastan
*
0000-0001-6231-4388
Türkiye
Publication Date
June 22, 2026
Submission Date
January 1, 2026
Acceptance Date
February 24, 2026
Published in Issue
Year 2026 Volume: 9 Number: 1